Meet the Doctors
Casey Rhoads, DDS, MDS
Dr. Rhoads, originally from Hays, Kansas, has been practicing pediatric dentistry in the Kansas City area since 2016. In addition to her abilities as an experienced pediatric dental specialist, Dr. Rhoads also takes pride in her communication skills. She knows that a clear explanation about a procedure or treatment can help ease a parent’s or child’s anxiety and make each visit more enjoyable. Dr. Rhoads combines a strong work ethic with an engaging approach to bring both honesty and empathy to every appointment.
Dr. Rhoads truly cherishes every minute she gets to spend helping, teaching and interacting with her patients. She believes a positive relationship with your dental provider early on will translate into a positive outlook on dentistry and dental health for life! Dr. Rhoads enjoys watching her young patients grow and is grateful that their parents trust her to be a part of their lives.
When she isn’t treating children in the office, Dr. Casey Rhoads enjoys spending time and traveling with her husband and three children.
Education
- University of Kansas, BA, Human Biology
- University of Nebraska Medical Center College of Dentistry, DDS
- University of Tennessee Health Science Center, MDS in Pediatric Dentistry
Affiliations and Awards
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- Kansas Dental Association
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, College of Diplomates
- Ralph E. McDonald Award for Research, AAPD 2016
Pediatric Dentistry for a Lifetime of Oral Health
Visit the Hive for Happy, Healthy Smiles
Rebecca Ferns, DDS
Dr. Ferns began her dental career in 2015 when she practiced as a general dentist in Lawrence, Kansas. Working in a public health environment around many children, she realized her passion for pediatrics. Following her pediatric dental residency, she returned to the Kansas City area to continue her career.
Dr. Ferns’ goal as a pediatric dental specialist is to care for her patients and families in a way that encourages a lifetime of great oral health habits. Her bubbly, personable manner instantly puts patients at ease and enables her to grow long-lasting bonds.
“I want children to have as much fun at our practice as they can!” she says of treating pediatric patients. Dr. Rebecca Ferns understands that getting kids excited to visit the dentist and comfortable once they are in the chair makes all the difference.
When she isn’t in the office, Dr. Ferns enjoys spending time with her husband, daughter, and son. She also likes to run, cook, and ride along in the golf cart while her husband golfs.
Education
- Westmont College, BS, Chemistry
- University of Missouri – Kansas City School of Dentistry, DDS
- University of Southern California Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry, Pediatric Dental Certificate
Affiliations
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- Kansas Dental Association
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, College of Diplomates
Meredith Knabe, DDS
Dr. Meredith Knabe, a Kansas native from Overland Park, discovered her passion for pediatric dentistry at a young age after a positive experience with her own pediatric dentist. That early inspiration never wavered. She earned her degree in Nutritional Sciences with a minor in Spanish from Kansas State University before completing her dental training at the UMKC School of Dentistry. She then went on to receive specialized training in pediatric dentistry at Children’s Mercy Hospital.
Dr. Knabe’s goal as a pediatric dentist is to create an environment where children feel safe, curious, and excited to learn about their dental health. She believes that each visit is an opportunity not just to treat teeth, but to build confidence and trust that lasts a lifetime. Her kind and energetic demeanor helps patients feel at ease, and she finds great joy in watching them grow more comfortable at each visit.
“To me, the best part of this job is seeing kids light up when they feel proud of themselves at the dentist,” she says. “I love being able to turn what could be a stressful experience into something positive and even fun.”
Outside of the office, Dr. Meredith Knabe enjoys cooking and baking, staying active on her Peloton or in hot yoga, and spending weekends at the lake with her husband and puppy. She’s a proud K-State fan and loves cheering on the Wildcats and the Kansas City Chiefs.
Education
- Kansas State University – B.S. Nutritional Sciences
- University of Missouri Kansas City – School of Dentistry – DDS
- Children’s Mercy Hospital – Kansas City – Pediatric Dentistry Certificate
Affiliations
- American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry
- American Dental Association
- Kansas Dental Association
- American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, College of Diplomates